team-member

Sara Schuler

N/A

Licensed for 18 years

Law Degree

Awards

Primary Practice Area

Child custody

Language

English

About

Ms. Schuler practices all areas of Divorce and Family Law, including Child Custody, Child Support, Spousal Support and Alimony, Division of Property, Prenuptial Agreements and Premarital Agreements, and Enforcement.  Ms. Schuler also practices Collaborative Divorce, a team-based approach that seeks a resolution without litigation.  Locations served:  Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Prince William and Loudoun Counties.

Practices Areas

Child custody

Child support

Divorce and separation

Family

Language

English

Contact

Law Office of Sara Leiner Schuler3955 Chain Bridge RoadSecond FloorFairfax, VA, 22030

Office: N/A

Website: N/A

Reviews

Andrew
June 18, 2021

I consulted with four lawyers (at different firms) until I settled on Sara Schuler. I even retained one from a fancy big name firm for a while, but ultimately went back to her. Since my case ultimately went to trial, with a large firm on the other side, and because we won on every issue, I can't express I grateful I am that I had ultimately chose Sara. When I first consulted with Sara, what struck me is how precise and accurate she is. This is not what I got with the other lawyers, who made egregious misstatements about the law in their conversations with me. For example, a lawyer at a different (and well-known) firm told me, “well, the court doesn’t care about your contributions to the marriage,” when I told her I would like the marital assets to split according to our contributions. In fact, the Virginia statute explicitly requires that the court consider the “contributions, monetary and nonmonetary, of each party to the well-being of the family.” Sara never made any such errors in speaking with me, or in speaking to the court. This precision and accuracy are essential in the unfortunate case that you go to court. The trial was like an enormous fact checking exercise, involving thousands of pages of documents. Our credible presentation of the facts was central to our trial win. In contrast, mistakes, mis-statements, and being loose with the facts seemed to sink the other side. Related to her precision and accuracy, I felt I could trust Sara. Lawyers seem to care very much about their reputation in the legal community, much more so than they care about the outcome of your particular case. The other lawyers I consulted with tried to badger me into settling for an inequitable division rather than risk their reputations in a court room. Not that Sara was at all eager to go to court---she was also very reluctant, but at least she didn’t lie to me to try to get me to do what’s best for her career. Lawyers at some other (big name) law firms did. The whole pre-trial thing, and hopefully that’s the whole thing for you, that’s all very stressful too, and I was glad I had a lawyer I could trust for that part of it.

anonymous
May 7, 2020

Sara understands federal government employees' unique situation, particularly those amongst us who initiate the separation/divorce process from overseas. She represented me in court, mediation, and in direct communication with the opposing party. Sara runs her own practice and takes the time to know her clients and cases, she is always prepared for situations as they arise. She provides a personalized service to her clients and she always has had time for me when I had unexpected legal needs, including once while she was on vacation. I’d recommend Sara to anyone considering or determined to divorce.

Bobby
June 23, 2017

Sarah did a great job leading me through the divorce. She followed through with everything I asked and responded very quickly to my emails. Her responses were very informative and helped me make the right decisions. She was very conscientious and efficient with her time and billing me for it. I would highly recommend her.

anonymous
February 23, 2017

The adoption laws in VA can be complex and overwhelming to understand, especially if you are of same sex adopting. Sara took on my case with passion and persistence that I didn’t expect but very much appreciated. Our type of case was the first for Sara. Being unfamiliar with same sex adoption, she researched and researched, keeping us informed of everything. What really stuck out for me, was that she took my case personally, it really mattered to her, which made the world difference for us. As of February, 2017, I legally adopted of 2 beautiful children. Thank you Sara!

Ryan
July 30, 2016

After a few unimpressive consultations with other lawyers for a child custody issue, I found Sara through Avvo. Sara took the time to listen and analyze my situation rather than rushing to discuss payment. She let me know it would be a tough case that could go either way. Her honesty and her attentiveness was exactly what I wanted in a lawyer. I frequently felt mystified and overwhelmed by the entire legal process. Sara was able to clearly explain each step, what to expect next, and the different options at each point during the process. At the trial Sara completely outclassed the other lawyer in being prepared for trial, having me prepped for trial, our discovery requests, the number of her sustained objections, her cross examination questions and such. We had a much better and more polished case. In the end the judge's ruling was pretty much a draw. While I wasn't happy with the outcome it would have been far worse if not for Sara's efforts. I would definitely retain Sara again for any future family law matters.

Victoria
June 12, 2015

The divorce process in Virginia can be complex and frustrating. That's why I'm glad I found Ms. Schuler. She is well-informed, thoughtful and bright, She quickly responded to my inquiries by email or phone and kept me informed throughout the process. Although my divorce was amicable, Ms. Schuler made sure I understood the relevant laws and how they might affect my choices in the proceedings. She is not someone who is easily intimidated -- she is a true advocate for her client

Jim
May 29, 2015

“I was involved in a family matter initially considered routine but quickly devolved into a lengthy and contentious proceeding. When negotiations were mired, Sara joined the legal team and quickly identified and resolved the outstanding issues and brought closure to the case. I was impressed with her ability to be assertive and stand toe-to toe with opposing counsel and truly represent my best interests. Suffice it to say her professionalism and competence are exceptional; I unhesitatingly recommend Sara to anyone needing the best in legal representation."

anonymous
May 24, 2015

Sara was professional, appropriately reserved, but compassionate in a painful divorce negotiation. She listened to me carefully and responded promptly to my questions, drawing on the legal resources of her firm when necessary. Her billings were detailed, clear, and fair. I felt I was in good hands and would recommend her to a family member or my dearest friend, should the sad necessity arise..

anonymous
May 22, 2015

My fiancee and I, both older and I with two grown sons, wanted a prenuptial agreement. My friend recommended Sara, a member of his law firm whom I had not met before. Sara was the wonderful combination of a bright and thorough attorney and a warm and understanding human being. She understood my desire to both provide for my new wife and also protect the interests of my sons and me. She worked well with my wife's attorney. We had the whole process done within 3 weeks, to the satisfaction of all. I recommend her without reservation.

Iris
May 19, 2015

Sara handled my case with respect and dignity at a time when I needed that the most. I was not expecting a difficult case, but it turned into one and she gave me the right guidance and represented me well so that I was able to come to a resolution without further exacerbation. She understood I wanted to keep the case moving and if she was not available, she made sure I was left in the capable hands of another associate in her firm. I highly recommend her and if in need would seek out her services again.

Andrew
June 18, 2021

I consulted with four lawyers (at different firms) until I settled on Sara Schuler. I even retained one from a fancy big name firm for a while, but ultimately went back to her. Since my case ultimately went to trial, with a large firm on the other side, and because we won on every issue, I can't express I grateful I am that I had ultimately chose Sara. When I first consulted with Sara, what struck me is how precise and accurate she is. This is not what I got with the other lawyers, who made egregious misstatements about the law in their conversations with me. For example, a lawyer at a different (and well-known) firm told me, “well, the court doesn’t care about your contributions to the marriage,” when I told her I would like the marital assets to split according to our contributions. In fact, the Virginia statute explicitly requires that the court consider the “contributions, monetary and nonmonetary, of each party to the well-being of the family.” Sara never made any such errors in speaking with me, or in speaking to the court. This precision and accuracy are essential in the unfortunate case that you go to court. The trial was like an enormous fact checking exercise, involving thousands of pages of documents. Our credible presentation of the facts was central to our trial win. In contrast, mistakes, mis-statements, and being loose with the facts seemed to sink the other side. Related to her precision and accuracy, I felt I could trust Sara. Lawyers seem to care very much about their reputation in the legal community, much more so than they care about the outcome of your particular case. The other lawyers I consulted with tried to badger me into settling for an inequitable division rather than risk their reputations in a court room. Not that Sara was at all eager to go to court---she was also very reluctant, but at least she didn’t lie to me to try to get me to do what’s best for her career. Lawyers at some other (big name) law firms did. The whole pre-trial thing, and hopefully that’s the whole thing for you, that’s all very stressful too, and I was glad I had a lawyer I could trust for that part of it.

anonymous
May 7, 2020

Sara understands federal government employees' unique situation, particularly those amongst us who initiate the separation/divorce process from overseas. She represented me in court, mediation, and in direct communication with the opposing party. Sara runs her own practice and takes the time to know her clients and cases, she is always prepared for situations as they arise. She provides a personalized service to her clients and she always has had time for me when I had unexpected legal needs, including once while she was on vacation. I’d recommend Sara to anyone considering or determined to divorce.

Bobby
June 23, 2017

Sarah did a great job leading me through the divorce. She followed through with everything I asked and responded very quickly to my emails. Her responses were very informative and helped me make the right decisions. She was very conscientious and efficient with her time and billing me for it. I would highly recommend her.

anonymous
February 23, 2017

The adoption laws in VA can be complex and overwhelming to understand, especially if you are of same sex adopting. Sara took on my case with passion and persistence that I didn’t expect but very much appreciated. Our type of case was the first for Sara. Being unfamiliar with same sex adoption, she researched and researched, keeping us informed of everything. What really stuck out for me, was that she took my case personally, it really mattered to her, which made the world difference for us. As of February, 2017, I legally adopted of 2 beautiful children. Thank you Sara!

Ryan
July 30, 2016

After a few unimpressive consultations with other lawyers for a child custody issue, I found Sara through Avvo. Sara took the time to listen and analyze my situation rather than rushing to discuss payment. She let me know it would be a tough case that could go either way. Her honesty and her attentiveness was exactly what I wanted in a lawyer. I frequently felt mystified and overwhelmed by the entire legal process. Sara was able to clearly explain each step, what to expect next, and the different options at each point during the process. At the trial Sara completely outclassed the other lawyer in being prepared for trial, having me prepped for trial, our discovery requests, the number of her sustained objections, her cross examination questions and such. We had a much better and more polished case. In the end the judge's ruling was pretty much a draw. While I wasn't happy with the outcome it would have been far worse if not for Sara's efforts. I would definitely retain Sara again for any future family law matters.

Victoria
June 12, 2015

The divorce process in Virginia can be complex and frustrating. That's why I'm glad I found Ms. Schuler. She is well-informed, thoughtful and bright, She quickly responded to my inquiries by email or phone and kept me informed throughout the process. Although my divorce was amicable, Ms. Schuler made sure I understood the relevant laws and how they might affect my choices in the proceedings. She is not someone who is easily intimidated -- she is a true advocate for her client

Jim
May 29, 2015

“I was involved in a family matter initially considered routine but quickly devolved into a lengthy and contentious proceeding. When negotiations were mired, Sara joined the legal team and quickly identified and resolved the outstanding issues and brought closure to the case. I was impressed with her ability to be assertive and stand toe-to toe with opposing counsel and truly represent my best interests. Suffice it to say her professionalism and competence are exceptional; I unhesitatingly recommend Sara to anyone needing the best in legal representation."

anonymous
May 24, 2015

Sara was professional, appropriately reserved, but compassionate in a painful divorce negotiation. She listened to me carefully and responded promptly to my questions, drawing on the legal resources of her firm when necessary. Her billings were detailed, clear, and fair. I felt I was in good hands and would recommend her to a family member or my dearest friend, should the sad necessity arise..

anonymous
May 22, 2015

My fiancee and I, both older and I with two grown sons, wanted a prenuptial agreement. My friend recommended Sara, a member of his law firm whom I had not met before. Sara was the wonderful combination of a bright and thorough attorney and a warm and understanding human being. She understood my desire to both provide for my new wife and also protect the interests of my sons and me. She worked well with my wife's attorney. We had the whole process done within 3 weeks, to the satisfaction of all. I recommend her without reservation.

Iris
May 19, 2015

Sara handled my case with respect and dignity at a time when I needed that the most. I was not expecting a difficult case, but it turned into one and she gave me the right guidance and represented me well so that I was able to come to a resolution without further exacerbation. She understood I wanted to keep the case moving and if she was not available, she made sure I was left in the capable hands of another associate in her firm. I highly recommend her and if in need would seek out her services again.

Andrew
June 18, 2021

I consulted with four lawyers (at different firms) until I settled on Sara Schuler. I even retained one from a fancy big name firm for a while, but ultimately went back to her. Since my case ultimately went to trial, with a large firm on the other side, and because we won on every issue, I can't express I grateful I am that I had ultimately chose Sara. When I first consulted with Sara, what struck me is how precise and accurate she is. This is not what I got with the other lawyers, who made egregious misstatements about the law in their conversations with me. For example, a lawyer at a different (and well-known) firm told me, “well, the court doesn’t care about your contributions to the marriage,” when I told her I would like the marital assets to split according to our contributions. In fact, the Virginia statute explicitly requires that the court consider the “contributions, monetary and nonmonetary, of each party to the well-being of the family.” Sara never made any such errors in speaking with me, or in speaking to the court. This precision and accuracy are essential in the unfortunate case that you go to court. The trial was like an enormous fact checking exercise, involving thousands of pages of documents. Our credible presentation of the facts was central to our trial win. In contrast, mistakes, mis-statements, and being loose with the facts seemed to sink the other side. Related to her precision and accuracy, I felt I could trust Sara. Lawyers seem to care very much about their reputation in the legal community, much more so than they care about the outcome of your particular case. The other lawyers I consulted with tried to badger me into settling for an inequitable division rather than risk their reputations in a court room. Not that Sara was at all eager to go to court---she was also very reluctant, but at least she didn’t lie to me to try to get me to do what’s best for her career. Lawyers at some other (big name) law firms did. The whole pre-trial thing, and hopefully that’s the whole thing for you, that’s all very stressful too, and I was glad I had a lawyer I could trust for that part of it.

anonymous
May 7, 2020

Sara understands federal government employees' unique situation, particularly those amongst us who initiate the separation/divorce process from overseas. She represented me in court, mediation, and in direct communication with the opposing party. Sara runs her own practice and takes the time to know her clients and cases, she is always prepared for situations as they arise. She provides a personalized service to her clients and she always has had time for me when I had unexpected legal needs, including once while she was on vacation. I’d recommend Sara to anyone considering or determined to divorce.

Bobby
June 23, 2017

Sarah did a great job leading me through the divorce. She followed through with everything I asked and responded very quickly to my emails. Her responses were very informative and helped me make the right decisions. She was very conscientious and efficient with her time and billing me for it. I would highly recommend her.

anonymous
February 23, 2017

The adoption laws in VA can be complex and overwhelming to understand, especially if you are of same sex adopting. Sara took on my case with passion and persistence that I didn’t expect but very much appreciated. Our type of case was the first for Sara. Being unfamiliar with same sex adoption, she researched and researched, keeping us informed of everything. What really stuck out for me, was that she took my case personally, it really mattered to her, which made the world difference for us. As of February, 2017, I legally adopted of 2 beautiful children. Thank you Sara!

Ryan
July 30, 2016

After a few unimpressive consultations with other lawyers for a child custody issue, I found Sara through Avvo. Sara took the time to listen and analyze my situation rather than rushing to discuss payment. She let me know it would be a tough case that could go either way. Her honesty and her attentiveness was exactly what I wanted in a lawyer. I frequently felt mystified and overwhelmed by the entire legal process. Sara was able to clearly explain each step, what to expect next, and the different options at each point during the process. At the trial Sara completely outclassed the other lawyer in being prepared for trial, having me prepped for trial, our discovery requests, the number of her sustained objections, her cross examination questions and such. We had a much better and more polished case. In the end the judge's ruling was pretty much a draw. While I wasn't happy with the outcome it would have been far worse if not for Sara's efforts. I would definitely retain Sara again for any future family law matters.

Victoria
June 12, 2015

The divorce process in Virginia can be complex and frustrating. That's why I'm glad I found Ms. Schuler. She is well-informed, thoughtful and bright, She quickly responded to my inquiries by email or phone and kept me informed throughout the process. Although my divorce was amicable, Ms. Schuler made sure I understood the relevant laws and how they might affect my choices in the proceedings. She is not someone who is easily intimidated -- she is a true advocate for her client

Jim
May 29, 2015

“I was involved in a family matter initially considered routine but quickly devolved into a lengthy and contentious proceeding. When negotiations were mired, Sara joined the legal team and quickly identified and resolved the outstanding issues and brought closure to the case. I was impressed with her ability to be assertive and stand toe-to toe with opposing counsel and truly represent my best interests. Suffice it to say her professionalism and competence are exceptional; I unhesitatingly recommend Sara to anyone needing the best in legal representation."

anonymous
May 24, 2015

Sara was professional, appropriately reserved, but compassionate in a painful divorce negotiation. She listened to me carefully and responded promptly to my questions, drawing on the legal resources of her firm when necessary. Her billings were detailed, clear, and fair. I felt I was in good hands and would recommend her to a family member or my dearest friend, should the sad necessity arise..

anonymous
May 22, 2015

My fiancee and I, both older and I with two grown sons, wanted a prenuptial agreement. My friend recommended Sara, a member of his law firm whom I had not met before. Sara was the wonderful combination of a bright and thorough attorney and a warm and understanding human being. She understood my desire to both provide for my new wife and also protect the interests of my sons and me. She worked well with my wife's attorney. We had the whole process done within 3 weeks, to the satisfaction of all. I recommend her without reservation.

Iris
May 19, 2015

Sara handled my case with respect and dignity at a time when I needed that the most. I was not expecting a difficult case, but it turned into one and she gave me the right guidance and represented me well so that I was able to come to a resolution without further exacerbation. She understood I wanted to keep the case moving and if she was not available, she made sure I was left in the capable hands of another associate in her firm. I highly recommend her and if in need would seek out her services again.

Andrew
June 18, 2021

I consulted with four lawyers (at different firms) until I settled on Sara Schuler. I even retained one from a fancy big name firm for a while, but ultimately went back to her. Since my case ultimately went to trial, with a large firm on the other side, and because we won on every issue, I can't express I grateful I am that I had ultimately chose Sara. When I first consulted with Sara, what struck me is how precise and accurate she is. This is not what I got with the other lawyers, who made egregious misstatements about the law in their conversations with me. For example, a lawyer at a different (and well-known) firm told me, “well, the court doesn’t care about your contributions to the marriage,” when I told her I would like the marital assets to split according to our contributions. In fact, the Virginia statute explicitly requires that the court consider the “contributions, monetary and nonmonetary, of each party to the well-being of the family.” Sara never made any such errors in speaking with me, or in speaking to the court. This precision and accuracy are essential in the unfortunate case that you go to court. The trial was like an enormous fact checking exercise, involving thousands of pages of documents. Our credible presentation of the facts was central to our trial win. In contrast, mistakes, mis-statements, and being loose with the facts seemed to sink the other side. Related to her precision and accuracy, I felt I could trust Sara. Lawyers seem to care very much about their reputation in the legal community, much more so than they care about the outcome of your particular case. The other lawyers I consulted with tried to badger me into settling for an inequitable division rather than risk their reputations in a court room. Not that Sara was at all eager to go to court---she was also very reluctant, but at least she didn’t lie to me to try to get me to do what’s best for her career. Lawyers at some other (big name) law firms did. The whole pre-trial thing, and hopefully that’s the whole thing for you, that’s all very stressful too, and I was glad I had a lawyer I could trust for that part of it.

anonymous
May 7, 2020

Sara understands federal government employees' unique situation, particularly those amongst us who initiate the separation/divorce process from overseas. She represented me in court, mediation, and in direct communication with the opposing party. Sara runs her own practice and takes the time to know her clients and cases, she is always prepared for situations as they arise. She provides a personalized service to her clients and she always has had time for me when I had unexpected legal needs, including once while she was on vacation. I’d recommend Sara to anyone considering or determined to divorce.

Bobby
June 23, 2017

Sarah did a great job leading me through the divorce. She followed through with everything I asked and responded very quickly to my emails. Her responses were very informative and helped me make the right decisions. She was very conscientious and efficient with her time and billing me for it. I would highly recommend her.

anonymous
February 23, 2017

The adoption laws in VA can be complex and overwhelming to understand, especially if you are of same sex adopting. Sara took on my case with passion and persistence that I didn’t expect but very much appreciated. Our type of case was the first for Sara. Being unfamiliar with same sex adoption, she researched and researched, keeping us informed of everything. What really stuck out for me, was that she took my case personally, it really mattered to her, which made the world difference for us. As of February, 2017, I legally adopted of 2 beautiful children. Thank you Sara!

Ryan
July 30, 2016

After a few unimpressive consultations with other lawyers for a child custody issue, I found Sara through Avvo. Sara took the time to listen and analyze my situation rather than rushing to discuss payment. She let me know it would be a tough case that could go either way. Her honesty and her attentiveness was exactly what I wanted in a lawyer. I frequently felt mystified and overwhelmed by the entire legal process. Sara was able to clearly explain each step, what to expect next, and the different options at each point during the process. At the trial Sara completely outclassed the other lawyer in being prepared for trial, having me prepped for trial, our discovery requests, the number of her sustained objections, her cross examination questions and such. We had a much better and more polished case. In the end the judge's ruling was pretty much a draw. While I wasn't happy with the outcome it would have been far worse if not for Sara's efforts. I would definitely retain Sara again for any future family law matters.

Victoria
June 12, 2015

The divorce process in Virginia can be complex and frustrating. That's why I'm glad I found Ms. Schuler. She is well-informed, thoughtful and bright, She quickly responded to my inquiries by email or phone and kept me informed throughout the process. Although my divorce was amicable, Ms. Schuler made sure I understood the relevant laws and how they might affect my choices in the proceedings. She is not someone who is easily intimidated -- she is a true advocate for her client

Jim
May 29, 2015

“I was involved in a family matter initially considered routine but quickly devolved into a lengthy and contentious proceeding. When negotiations were mired, Sara joined the legal team and quickly identified and resolved the outstanding issues and brought closure to the case. I was impressed with her ability to be assertive and stand toe-to toe with opposing counsel and truly represent my best interests. Suffice it to say her professionalism and competence are exceptional; I unhesitatingly recommend Sara to anyone needing the best in legal representation."

anonymous
May 24, 2015

Sara was professional, appropriately reserved, but compassionate in a painful divorce negotiation. She listened to me carefully and responded promptly to my questions, drawing on the legal resources of her firm when necessary. Her billings were detailed, clear, and fair. I felt I was in good hands and would recommend her to a family member or my dearest friend, should the sad necessity arise..

anonymous
May 22, 2015

My fiancee and I, both older and I with two grown sons, wanted a prenuptial agreement. My friend recommended Sara, a member of his law firm whom I had not met before. Sara was the wonderful combination of a bright and thorough attorney and a warm and understanding human being. She understood my desire to both provide for my new wife and also protect the interests of my sons and me. She worked well with my wife's attorney. We had the whole process done within 3 weeks, to the satisfaction of all. I recommend her without reservation.

Iris
May 19, 2015

Sara handled my case with respect and dignity at a time when I needed that the most. I was not expecting a difficult case, but it turned into one and she gave me the right guidance and represented me well so that I was able to come to a resolution without further exacerbation. She understood I wanted to keep the case moving and if she was not available, she made sure I was left in the capable hands of another associate in her firm. I highly recommend her and if in need would seek out her services again.